Schroders: Championing gender diversity in investment management

Future IM/Pact programs used:&nbsp

Through proactive policies and a strategic partnership with Future IM/Pact, global asset manager Schroders is achieving new levels of gender diversity, surpassing their representation targets and demonstrating a steadfast commitment to inclusivity.

At Schroders, we are fully committed to promoting gender diversity in the investment management industry. We recognise that diverse teams drive innovation and deliver better outcomes for our clients. Our partnership with Future IM/Pact reinforces our dedication to creating a more inclusive industry. Together, we are breaking barriers, amplifying diverse voices, and building a future where gender equality is the norm. We are proud to be part of this impactful initiative, driving positive change for women in investment management
Jayne May, Head of People and Culture, Schroders

Proactive policies to attract and retain women

Schroders recognises that a diverse workforce drives innovation and enhances decision-making, and as such have implemented proactive measures to attract and retain more women across the organisation.

While low investment team turnover provides rare opportunities for external recruitment, the team works with their recruitment partners when opportunities do come up to ensure gender-balanced shortlists and interviews. They’ve also had great success attracting female talent through employee referrals and global mobility, with many candidates drawn to Schroders’ inclusive culture.

This inclusivity is fostered through policies such as gender-neutral parental leave, fertility support leave, and flexible working arrangements. Another impressive initiative has been the extension of full-time superannuation contributions from paid and unpaid parental leave to part time parental returners, until the youngest child reaches school age (6 years old). This recognises the impact the early years of parenting have longer-term on superannuation balances at retirement, disproportionately impacting women.

Exceeding gender representation targets

In 2021, Schroders Australia set a target of 35% female representation at senior management level by 2024, which they have now exceeded. As of March 2024, the firm boasts 44% female employees and an impressive 46% female representation on the Australian Executive Team. Globally, women occupy 34.7% of senior leadership roles. These figures underscore Schroders’ unwavering commitment to achieving gender balance.

Elevated Schroders brand with university students and early career women.
Enabled direct and personal access to grass-roots talent.
Several successful internships with investment competition winners and students
Facilitated cross-industry collaboration and a lasting legacy of empowering women in investment management.

Partnership with Future IM/Pact - the mutual value of internships

Schroders’ partnership with Future IM/Pact exemplifies its proactive stance on gender diversity. By supporting initiatives such as offering paid internships to Investment Competition winners, Schroders invests in future talent while promoting the investment management industry as an attractive career option for aspiring graduates. Schroders acknowledges that our partnership offers numerous benefits, including access to grassroots talent, cross-industry collaboration, and a lasting legacy of empowering women in investment management.

One of the 2023 Investment Competition winners, Ashwin Rao, chose Schroders as his internship prize and had nothing but praise for the organisation.

“The highlight of my Schroders internship revolved around the incredible individuals I met and worked alongside. What struck me most was the unwavering support and willingness of every team member to address any queries I had, fostering a truly nurturing environment throughout my internship journey.” Ashwin said.

You can read about Ashwin’s internship experience here.

Natalie Morcos, Head of Product and Solutions, was impressed with Ashwin’s adaptability and enthusiasm, underscoring the mutual value derived from the internship experience.

“Ashwin has been an invaluable asset to our team during his 3-month internship. His consistent demonstration of eagerness to learn and openness to new challenges are truly remarkable. With genuine curiosity and a hunger for understanding our industry, Ashwin’s passion and adaptability allows him to always take on new responsibilities with a positive attitude. Despite his part-time schedule, he was able to seamlessly transition between projects and made notable contributions to the team. The internship process was incredibly valuable for both Schroders and Ashwin. We are grateful for his contributions, and I have no doubt that he has a bright future ahead.”

Schroders recognises that a diverse workforce drives innovation and enhances decision-making, and as such have implemented proactive measures to attract and retain more women

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